Harvest will be past the midway point by the end of October. We had a scare from what was maybe the earliest frost ever in our area but the vines held up well. Right now, we are expecting a large rain on Monday, October 25th.
Our regular picking crew has been great but it has been difficult getting the additional help that we usually require at harvest. Even though our crop is a little bit late, quality has been exceptional, especially in the Pinot Noir and the Clone 6 Cabernet Sauvignon.
2017 Sparkling Wine: Royce and I started making Sparkling Wine in 2000 and it continues to be more than a fun thing to do. This is our Blanc de Noirs, which we have made for several vintages with 20% Chardonnay and 80% Pinot Noir, picked on the same day and co-fermented to give it a little something extra and different. We made this one in a brut style, which is quite dry, but with enough residual sugar to take off any edge. Don’t underestimate the enjoyment that comes from Sparkling Wine whether you drink it for fun, celebration, or with your favorite dish.
2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, “Clone 6”: I have been asked a thousand times which is my favorite wine and I always try to avoid answering, but our Clone 6 is truly something special. It is made with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and it is the essence of Cabernet. Today most Cabernet is blended with other Bordeaux varieties, especially Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and maybe a touch of Petit Verdot. The Clone 6 by itself is dark in color - I call it “royalty red”, with flavors of dark cherry with no bitterness. Tannins are not “tannic” but smooth and lush. It sounds like I like this one! This is a great wine. Take a break from everything else while you experience it.
With all that we have endured this past year, there are still so many things that we have to be thankful for; friends, family, health, and plenty of time to reflect on how blessed we have been over our entire lives...God, country, and all of life’s experiences. Happy Thanksgiving.
Louis Lucas
